Free MathCAD alternative for Linux
Computing Competency

© Lead Image © donnastern , 123RF.com
Present complex equations with intermediate steps, graphics, plots, and results in SMath.
University students in engineering often have assignments in which they must show their work step-by-step with sample calculations. Although Excel and Python are useful for advanced calculations, they can't present complex equations formally in a report.
MathCAD [1] is a good package for writing engineering reports. The tool offers a workbook interface that allows you to enter complex equations in a readable format, along with a rich function library, programming interface, graphics, and plots. Unfortunately, MathCAD isn't supported in Linux, and it is generally out of the budget for students or casual users. As an alternative, SMath is a great free option that works in Linux, macOS, and Windows.
In this article I introduce SMath and show you some of the useful features that I expect to use in my next engineering term. I also look at an SMath example that solves a typical high school or first-year university math problem.
[...]
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.

News
-
System76 Releases COSMIC Alpha 7
With scores of bug fixes and a really cool workspaces feature, COSMIC is looking to soon migrate from alpha to beta.
-
OpenMandriva Lx 6.0 Available for Installation
The latest release of OpenMandriva has arrived with a new kernel, an updated Plasma desktop, and a server edition.
-
TrueNAS 25.04 Arrives with Thousands of Changes
One of the most popular Linux-based NAS solutions has rolled out the latest edition, based on Ubuntu 25.04.
-
Fedora 42 Available with Two New Spins
The latest release from the Fedora Project includes the usual updates, a new kernel, an official KDE Plasma spin, and a new System76 spin.
-
So Long, ArcoLinux
The ArcoLinux distribution is the latest Linux distribution to shut down.
-
What Open Source Pros Look for in a Job Role
Learn what professionals in technical and non-technical roles say is most important when seeking a new position.
-
Asahi Linux Runs into Issues with M4 Support
Due to Apple Silicon changes, the Asahi Linux project is at odds with adding support for the M4 chips.
-
Plasma 6.3.4 Now Available
Although not a major release, Plasma 6.3.4 does fix some bugs and offer a subtle change for the Plasma sidebar.
-
Linux Kernel 6.15 First Release Candidate Now Available
Linux Torvalds has announced that the release candidate for the final release of the Linux 6.15 series is now available.
-
Akamai Will Host kernel.org
The organization dedicated to cloud-based solutions has agreed to host kernel.org to deliver long-term stability for the development team.